​​Patagonia 2024: the Carretera Austral
​​Want to come? hi@dustincurtis.com on iMessage/email
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​​Rough plan

​​Rent a vehicle and drive down the Carretera Austral (“regarded as one of the most beautiful roads and incredible drives in the world”), crossing over to Argentina periodically, while camping (at campgrounds + wild camping) and hiking along the way. 
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​​Time: 3 weeks
​​Begin: Late October Feb? Aug/Sept 2020?
​​Why: Some of the most beautiful scenery in the world; glaciers, enormous mountains, challenging hiking; sleeping under the stars; being isolated from the internet/technology; adventure
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​​Potential Route

​​Starting at Puerto Montt, drive most of the way down the Carretera Austral before crossing into Argentina at Patagonia National Park, and then continuing down to Punta Arenas: https://goo.gl/maps/P1HJBDfei7W1bHuq7 (More specific: https://goo.gl/maps/Mfv7ifNfdTNg3Ls89 )
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  • ​​Can rent at Puerto Montt and return at Punta Arenas; they have tent-vehicles w/refrigerators etc...
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​​This is a good overview of how to do this journey properly… first listen to the podcast and then read: https://www.thebudgetmindedtraveler.com/carretera-austral-patagonia-road-trip/
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​​Things to get

​​Lots of rain/mud during this time of year. Very cold at times. Layer clothing.
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  • ​​Very lightweight tent
  • ​​Very lightweight sleeping bag
  • ​​Arc’teryx waterproof shell
  • ​​Hiking shoes
  • ​​Dry bags
  • ​​Cooking equipment
  • ​​Head lamp (batteries)
  • ​​DEET Mosquito repellant
  • ​​Sunscreen
  • ​​No denim; outdoor gear. Rainproof pants and jacket.
  • ​​Satellite emergency beacon
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​​Tips

  • ​​Get Entel SIM which will work in most places where there is coverage
  • ​​Apps
  • ​​iOverlander - driving tips
  • ​​Maps.me - download all maps, directions
  • ​​Use US dollars for accommodations to avoid paying 19% tax. Always have cash in both currencies. 
  • ​​Keep gas tank full, and fill at every gas station no matter how much fuel you have. 
  • ​​Do not carry produce or dairy — cannot pass between Chile and Argentina easily. 
  • ​​Keep passport in ziplock/dry bag